If you are a Canadian passport holder currently in the United States and plan to travel to China for tourism, business, study, or family visits, you can apply for a Chinese visa at one of the Chinese consulates in the U.S. The process is similar to that for U.S. citizens but with some important differences — especially regarding visa validity.
1. Key Differences for Canadian Citizens
- Visa Validity: While U.S. citizens can get a 10-year multiple-entry visa, Canadian citizens applying in the U.S. typically receive a visa valid for the duration of their passport validity minus one year.
Example: If your passport expires in June 2035, the Chinese visa will be valid until June 2034. - No in-person visa interview required. Unlike applying for a Chinese visa in Canada where applicants must visit the consulate in person for fingerprinting and interview, Canadian citizens applying in the U.S. are exempt from both the interview and fingerprint collection process.
- Same Application Process: The form, required documents, and submission steps are the same as for other foreign nationals in the U.S.
2， Where you will apply: please refer to our latest consular jurisdiction adjustment guide.
| Embassy/Consulate | Jurisdiction |
|---|---|
| Embassy of China in the United States (Washington, D.C.) | District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee, Delaware |
| Embassy of China Also covers the former Houston Consulate jurisdiction) | Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Texas, Puerto Rico |
| Consulate-General of China in New York | Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Rhode Island |
| Consulate-General of China in San Francisco | Northern California, Alaska, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming |
| Consulate-General of China in Los Angeles | Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, Hawaii, Pacific Islands |
| Consulate-General of China in Chicago | Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota |
Note: If you use the services of visitchinavisa.com, you can enjoy expedited processing with visa approval in 3-5 business days from this point.
3. Complete the China Online Application Form (COVA)
- Follow our step-by-step guide to fill out the China Visa Application Form (COVA) online.
- After completing the form, Download and print the full set of COVA forms (8–9 pages) and sign both the Confirmation Page and Section 9.1 on page 7.
- Applications that do not prepare correctly will not be accepted.
4. Prepare Your Required Documents
Required documents may vary depending on your visa type. Refer to our visa guide for the latest document checklist for your specific visa category.
Important Note:
As of January 1, 2024, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates-General in the United States have simplified required documents for China visa applications. U.S.-based applicants no longer need to submit round-trip air tickets, hotel reservations, and itineraries; An invitation letter is also not required for a tourist visa .
However, if you opt for express service, some consulates may still require a flight reservation to China within one week.
Basic documents required for most applicants:
- Valid Passport: At least 6 months’ validity with at least two blank “visa” pages.
- Note: For U.S. passport holders, if the passport’s validity is less than one year, the consulate will not issue a 10-year multiple-entry visa. In most cases, a 6-month double-entry visa will be issued instead.
- COVA-Chinese online visa Application form(Signed)
- Copy of Passport Information Page
- Proof of legal U.S. status (e.g., valid U.S. visa, Green Card, I-94, or ESTA approval).
- Proof of U.S. Residency: (e.g., photocopy of a driver’s license, utility bill, or bank statement). For minors, provide one parent’s proof of residence.
- Where You Stay Form: Download, fill out, and sign this form by hand.
Invitation letter by visa type:
- Tourist Visa (L): No invitation letter required.
- Family Visit (Q1/Q2/S1/S2): Invitation letter and a copy of the inviter’s ID required. For Q1 and S1, original documents are also needed; please consult our visa experts for details.
- Business/Study/Work/Exchange/High-Talent Visas (M/F/Z/X/R): Invitation letter from the Chinese company/institution is required.
Supplementary documents (as applicable):
- Previous Chinese visas: If available, provide a photocopy. If on a previous passport, include a copy of that passport. If lost, contact us for a template and provide a visa loss statement.
- Evidence of legal stay in the U.S.: Foreign nationals may provide a photocopy of a green card or visa or I-20 or I-94.
- For applicants formerly of Chinese nationality: If this is your first Chinese visa after naturalization, provide two copies of the Chinese passport bio page, a copy of your naturalization certificate, and the last physical Chinese passport.
- Government or non-profit employees: Provide an employer letter.
- Former military service: Please contact us for a template and submit a military service statement.
- Recent travel to specific countries: If you have visited Afghanistan, Cameroon, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Nigeria, Tunisia, Turkey, or Syria in the past 12 months, contact us for a template and provide a travel history record.
- U.S. citizens born in specific countries: (Afghanistan, Cameroon, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Nigeria, Tunisia, Turkey, or Syria) must provide a travel history record. An in-person interview may be required.
- NGO or NPO employees: Submit both an employer letter and a personal statement.
5. Submit Your Application
Note: As of October 23, 2023, appointments are not required for Chinese visa applications in the U.S.
- Complete your application online and prepare all required documents.
- Submit the hard copies in person at the Visa Office; applications by mail are not accepted.
- If you cannot apply in person, you may authorize a trusted agency or expediting service such as VisitChinaVisa to handle your application.
5. Processing Time
- Regular Service: 4 working days
- Express Service: 3 working days (for urgent situations)
Note: Processing times are average estimates. Some applications may require additional time. The pick-up date may not be confirmed until notified by the Visa Office.
6. Pay the Visa Fee and Collect Your Visa
- Return to the Visa Office on your assigned pick-up date with your pick-up receipt.
- Upon receiving your visa, verify that all information is correct. If you spot any errors, notify the staff immediately to avoid future inconvenience.
- Accepted payment methods: MasterCard, Visa, money order, or cashier’s check.
This guide is current as of August 2025 and reflects the latest procedures and document requirements for China visa applicants in US.
Tip:
Applying for Chinese visa for Canadian Citizens in US is straightforward if you’re prepared. Following these steps carefully , Hope can help you ensure a smooth process and minimize delays in your travel plans.
If you are unable to apply in person, Time is limited, or prefer to avoid paperwork, you may use a trusted agency or expediting service like VisitChinaVisa. Once your documents are received, your visa will typically be issued within 3–5 business days.
7. Why Choose Visit China Visa Center
- Convenient, Nationwide Access
No matter where you are in the U.S., you can mail your documents to us. We handle the legwork with the Chinese consulates so you don’t have to travel. - Fast, Reliable Service
Whether you’re traveling for business, tourism, or family visits, we offer standard and expedited processing options to meet your timeline — often as fast as 3–5 business days after receiving your documents. - Expert Application Review
Our experienced team thoroughly reviews your documents to prevent errors and avoid unnecessary delays, increasing your chance of quick approval. - Clear Guidance at Every Step
We offer clear instructions and dependable support, helping you understand exactly what is needed and answering all your questions promptly. - Trusted by Thousands
Our satisfied clients consistently refer us to friends and family. We’re proud to maintain a strong reputation through quality service and genuine care. - Safe and Secure Shipping
Your passport and visa are returned to you quickly and securely, with tracking and assurance throughout the process.
Visit China Visa Center strive to make your China visa application process as smooth, secure, and stress-free as possible. Entrust your visa needs to us and experience true peace of mind. If you have any questions about Chinese visas, please feel free to contact us at 202-202-2888 or service@visitchinavisa.com.